Hamilton County Voters Rush to Cast Their Ballots Early

Voters lined-up again Thursday morning at the Hamilton county elections department .

This was the second day of early voting.

Wednesday’s third and final debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton was fresh on the minds of many as they cast their ballots.

Judging from the turn-out for early voting Hamilton county residents are taking nothing for granted in the bitter campaign for president this year.

But the numbers did not surprise the elections administrator.

KERRY STEELMAN, ELECTIONS ADMINISTRATOR  “We had approximately 6-thousand voters to vote early on the first day….in 2016, in 2012, and 2008.”

About 1500 people voted at the elections department yesterday. And there are 3 other stations that stayed busy.

We wanted top know if the last debate had any impact of them.

MARK TERRELL, CHATTANOOGA  “No, nothing sways me…I’m 57 years old…haha.”

SHIRLEY BERKES, CHATTANOOGA   “It didn’t sway me in any way. I’ve been decided from the beginning ..I knew who I was going to vote for.’

Donald Trump refused to say whether he would concede if he loses the general election.

That got a rise out of some.

DONALD TRUMP (NO SUPER)  “I will tell you at the time—I’ll keep you in surprise.”

EARLY VOTER  “The very end, honestly. If you can’t stand up for the American people and their choice and decision, openly and up front, that’s not the kind of man I want representing me.”

EARLY VOTER  “I just got tired of the back and forth, it doesn’t seem like they are even talking about the..the policies anymore..or what they are actually supposed to be doing.”

EARLY VOTER  “It’s the same old thing, but, uh..there’s only one ballot on the box if you care about the United States. That’s all I’ve got to say.”

EARLY VOTER  “Well, I’m for Hillary. Hillary Clinton. You’d made up your mind before last night? Yes, I’ve already made up my mind.”

Trump did modify his comment later..saying he would not contest the race—if he won.”

In Tennessee a photo I.D. is needed to vote. You can still cast a provisional ballot, and return later with the I.D. according to the elections department.